Spend a bit of time in Norfolk and you may realise that Norfolk people often use a different terminology than other English-speaking counties. This is the fabulous Norfolk dialect (also known as ‘Broad Norfolk‘). We may be biased but we think it’s a marvellously quirky language and should be celebrated, which is why you’ll find our own Enjoying Norfolk interpretation of these phrases and words on the products across our range.
Here’s our guide to some Norfolk words and phrases that will help you understand what Norfolk people are saying:
Ar Yer Orrite? (see also: Ar Yer Orrite Bor)
A simple greeting – ‘Hello!’ in Broad Norfolk. The direct translation is ‘Are you alright?‘. ‘Bor’ is only to be used when addressing a male as it means ‘Boy’. Pronounced Arr Yerr Aw-Roite.
Slow You Down
This is easy to understand – it literally means – go slower, take it easy. You might even spot this phrase on road signs in Norfolk. We like this phrase because it serves as a timely reminder to pause and take some time – a great mantra when life is moving too fast. Which is why you’ll find this phrase across our range of T-Shirts, Sweaters, Joggers, Tote bags and more.
Antonym: Keep You Going.
Hold Yew Hard (see also: Hold Yew Hard Bor)
In Norfolk, you might say this if you wanted someone to slow up and wait for a moment. Apparently, it originates from the practice of holding a horse’s rein hard to prevent it from moving any further forward. Once again, we love the idea of a phrase that means ‘slow up’. In fact, we think it’s brilliant that the Norfolk dialect has multiple ways of saying ‘go slower’. So Norfolk! So we put it on sweaters ands T-shirts.
On The Huh
See things from a different angle! This Norfolk phrase that means something (or someone) is slanted or not level. A bit lopsided. Accordingly, the slogan on our On The Huh T-shirts is ever so slightly wonky. Also available as a sweater and a hoodie.
Jollificearshuns
This fantastic word means ‘fun and games‘ and we absolutely love it. If you’re here for the ‘Jollificearshuns‘, in Norfolk, you’re here for the good times. And why not. You only live once, so why not live a good life? We’ve included the word on our T-shirts, perfect for a Norfolk summer.
Bishy Barnabee, Dodman, Pollywiggle
These wonderful words are Norfolk names for insects and animals. In Norfolk, a ‘Bishy Barnabee’ is a Ladybird, a ‘Dodman’ is a snail (also sometimes called a ‘Dodderman’ or ‘Doddiman’), and a Pollywiggle is a tadpole. We’ve added these words to their associated capital letter on hoodies and T-shirts for children in our ‘Norfolk Alphabet‘ range.
Now you know these key words and sayings you’ll find it much easier to understand your fellow Nor-folk. Don’t be afraid to say one in a conversation, Norfolk people are very friendly and will be sure to teach you even more sayings. Go forth and be more Norfolk!
Want to show the world that Norfolk is your first language? Check out our Enjoying Norfolk store – full of fantastic clothes, art prints and accessories adorned with marvellous local phrases.
